Columbus Crew Face Houston Dynamo In Big Conference Showdown

In a crucial showdown that could make or break the Eastern Conference playoff picture, Saturday night the Columbus Crew will host the Houston Dynamo and it will definitely be one to look. With both teams looking forward to trying to qualify for the post season, this game is definitely circled on both teams' calenders. Columbus currently hold the 4th place spot with 30 points, looking to leap frog Toronto FC for the third place slot. Houston currently sit 8th with 25 points, but with a win on Saturday, could have them tied for 5th with New York Red Bulls. Needless to say, this match will have the intensity of an MLS Cup final.

Houston Dynamo are coming into this match with a 2-0 win over the Philadelphia Union with star forward Will Bruin scoring the winning goal in that match. There is no doubt that the adrenaline going through the players heads could play a factor in this game. Goalkeeper Tally Hall looks to record his 8th clean sheet of the season against a red hot Columbus Crew offense while midfielder Brad Davis looks to contribute this match with goals and assists. New Houston Dynamo and US World Cup star Demarcus Beasley will also come back to a familiar place in Columbus, Ohio. But this time for another purpose.

Columbus Crew end their three game home stand this weekend. After a rout 4-1 over the LA Galaxy last week, this team comes in with their heads held high looking to earn three points. The name on fans lips though, is Justin Meram. Scoring 2 goals in his last two matches he looks to put on another outstanding performance. Whether it's scoring marvelous curling shots out of the opposing keepers reach, or an easy tap in fans will be looking for him to magically lift his team to victory. Designated Player and forward Federico Higuain will play the holding spot in the front of the attack again, so it's likely he may notch a goal or two.

Projected Lineup: Columbus Crew

Clark;

Francis--Parkhurst--Gonzalez--Gehrig

Meram--Trapp--Tchani--Finlay

Higuain

Bedell

Projected Lineup: Houston Dynamo

Hall;

Beasley--Taylor--Horst--Sarkodie

Davis--Clark--Garrido--Garcia

Bruin--Barnes

Venue: Crew Stadium; Columbus, Ohio